Haakon Magnusson of Norway

Who was Haakon Magnusson of Norway?

Haakon Magnusson, byname Toresfostre, was king of Norway from 1093 to 1095. Haakon was only partially recognized within Norway and his reign was thus of limited significance. He has generally not been counted in the numbered series of Norwegian kings.

He was the grandson of King Harald Hardrada, son of King Magnus and nephew of King Olaf Kyrre. Haakon was born around the same time his father died. He was raised as a foster son by Tore på Steig of Gudbrandsdalen on the farm Steig in Fron. In 1090, he undertook a Viking expedition to Bjarmaland, today the area of Arkhangelsk in northern Russia.

After the death of Olav Kyrre he was hailed as King of Norway in Trondheim, while his cousin, King Magnus Barefoot, was hailed in Viken. He soon came into conflict with King Magnus and war seemed inevitable. In 1095, Magnus Berrføtt prepared an armed action against Haakon, but was surprised by the strong position held by his cousin. When Haakon learned that Magnus had come to Trondheim, he went across Dovrefjell mountain range. However, Haakon suddenly died during the trip over Dovrefjell. Magnus subsequently ruled as sole king of Norway. He captured Tore på Steig who was subsequently hanged.